From Saké to The Cloakroom Bar
Japanese treasure Saké is all about bringing its own spin to traditional flavours across its innovative menu. The restaurant is renowned for its sashimi – the freshest fish in the hands of some seriously skilled chefs makes for a truly memorable meal. Not to mention that Saké’s riverfront location gives you an outlook that’s almost as beautiful as its delicately plated dishes.

Sticking with the theme of quality pioneers, your next stop will take you to The Cloakroom Bar. Boasting an open-air space and ambient lounge, this hidden bar is focused on creating an experience as bespoke as its namesake tailoring business The Cloakroom. Much like a suit is made to measure, the bar does away with menus in favour of creating custom concoctions for each of its patrons based on personal taste and mood.

From ARIA to Sazerac
It would be remiss of us to mention riverfront dining destinations without paying respect to ARIA. Renowned owner executive chef Matt Moran and head chef Ben Russell have crafted an award-winning fine-dining menu that celebrates the best in Queensland’s seasonal produce, all served with impeccable finesse. The experience is further enhanced by the sweeping views that showcase the Story Bridge and beyond.

Following your feast, make your way to Mary Street for a drink that will get you high – 30 storeys, to be exact. Four Points by Sheraton is home to Sazerac, a chic lounge bar that celebrates the evolution of cocktails. There is a great selection of top-shelf beer, wine and spirits for sipping, but the cocktail list is sure to grab your attention – caramel popcorn martini, anyone?

 From Pony Dining to Sixteen Antlers
Saddle up for a night at Pony Dining, one of Eagle Street’s most delicious residents. The contemporary Australian menu is brought to life with help from the signature Argentinean woodfired grill that forms the centre of the kitchen, adding a distinct flavour to the fresh fare on offer. The only thing that rivals the food is the riverfront view, which is guaranteed to knock your socks off.

When you’re done with your dinner and it’s time for a nightcap (or two), Sixteen Antlers will satiate your thirst. Sitting 16 storeys up at Pullman and Mercure King George Square, this lush rooftop haunt combines loads of greenery with a swoon-worthy view – we see you, City Hall clock tower. The bar boasts eight signature cocktails alongside a polished selection of beer, wine and spirits to sip on.

From Jellyfish to Lennons Pool Terrace and Bar
If you take your seafood seriously, Jellyfish is sure to reel you in. This waterfront gem doesn’t mess around when it comes to quality and freshness – the staff aim to source and serve a school of eight to 14 species of fish every day. The freshness and variety are complemented by the chefs’ expert preparation skills, as well as the restaurant’s location right on the riverwalk.

When you’re done dining, wander into the Queen Street Mall and ascend to The Pool Terrace & Bar for some elevated drinks. The open deck provides a sweeping view of the bustling street scene below, as well as being eye level to some of the mall’s oldest (and most beautiful) building facades. Take in the action with a wine in hand or lounge poolside with a cocktail – whatever tickles your fancy.

From Alchemy to Bar OTTO
For a fine-dining experience that imbues a more relaxed vibe, Alchemy is the place to go. Internationally acclaimed head chef Brad Jolly is constantly bringing his own flavour to the modern Australian menu, adding twists to keep things interesting and enhance the natural excellence of the produce. The restaurant also happens to have a killer view out across the river, making the whole dining experience feel distinctly Brisbane. 

We’re going a bit rogue here, but there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to post-dinner drinking. Although you may know it for its aperitivo hour, Bar OTTO is a splendid spot to drop in for a drink post-feast. Sip on a selection of classic cocktails, beer and wine, or embrace your inner Italian with an Aperol spritz as you look out over the river.

This article was created in partnership with our friends at Brisbane Marketing.